Spider veins are a problem many people have to deal with, but they may not even realize it. Spider veins look unsightly, but they can also aggravate the area in which you see them and cause pain. Most people with spider veins have them on the face or legs, but they can also be on the chest or arms. If someone has spider veins on their legs, it is likely caused by blood pooling in the area, which will cause these tiny veins to appear purple and blue. While they do not present any health risks, you may want to seek treatment for spider veins for cosmetic reasons by visiting a specialist in spider veins in Warner Robins. This article provides you with all you need to know about spider veins.
Causes
Spider veins are caused by small veins in the skin that are too small to carry blood. When blood pools in the area, these tiny veins appear blue or purple. This discoloring is because there is no way for excess fluid to escape, so it causes a buildup in the surrounding tissues. These veins look red when healthy but become purple and blue when damaged. Some things that may be linked to the development of spider veins include:
- Thrombosis (blood clots or a blood clot in the vein)
- Injury to the veins – Damage to the veins from trauma can cause them to expand and split open, which will cause spider veins to appear.
- Hormones – Some people have a higher tendency for spider veins because of genetic changes caused by hormones. Warfarin, hormone therapy, and oral contraceptives are some medications that may affect veins.
Symptoms
Spider veins do not typically cause any symptoms other than the appearance of blood vessels on the skin. If you notice any changes in your vein pattern, such as swelling or pain, it is essential to seek medical attention. You should note that people with varicose veins and spider veins may experience the same symptoms.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will be able to diagnose spider veins by examining your skin. They will likely take pictures of them, too, to see what they look like. If the doctor thinks there is more damage than just spider veins, they may do additional testing such as an ultrasound or venogram.
Treatment
Many treatment options are available for those who suffer from spider veins. Sclerotherapy is a procedure that involves injecting a solution into the vein, causing it to collapse and become smaller. Laser surgery may also be used to treat spider veins, as well as radiofrequency ablation. Surgical management of spider veins is not standard but will likely be an option if other treatments do not work.
In summary, spider veins are a common problem that many people have to deal with. They will not likely cause any health problems in most cases, but they could be a cosmetic concern for some. There are treatment options, but no one option is appropriate for everyone, so it is best to seek medical attention from your doctor. They can help you determine the best course of action and will likely take pictures of your spider veins for you to see what they look like.
